Dental Hygiene & Professional Teeth Cleanings

At Deer Valley Dental Care in South East (SE) Calgary, our team of dentists and hygienists provide thorough dental hygiene consulting and teeth cleaning during every checkup.

What is Oral Hygiene?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is an important component of your overall health and helps prevent issues such as tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease. Not only will you feel good and prevent disease, but your breath will smell better and you can feel good about the aesthetics of your smile.

A good oral hygiene routine consists of proper brushing and flossing at home on a daily basis, as well as visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and checkup at least 2 times per year.

What happens if we neglect it?

Neglecting to maintain good oral hygiene leads to gum disease and tooth decay. Learn more »

How can a dental hygienist help?

Your dental hygienist's primary concern is the condition of your oral health. They are knowledgeable and trained to assess your health history, as well as your mouth, gums and teeth.

Your hygienist will work with you to develop a care plan that teaches you the best methods of prevention and maintenance of your oral health.

Dental hygienists are always available to give advice in regards to brushing, flossing and other best practices.

Causes of tooth decay

The two primary causes of tooth loss as we age are tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease - both caused by bacteria in the mouth.

When the bacteria in your mouth mixes with food and saliva in your mouth, it can cause plaque. Plaque build up on your teeth and if left uncleaned for too long, may cause tooth decay or cavities. This same plaque buildup can also cause infection in the gums called gum disease or gingivitis.

The best method of preventing plaque buildup that leads to tooth decay and gum disease, is good oral hygiene.

Some of the elements of proper oral hygiene include:

Brushing twice a day

Flossing

Eating a balanced diet

Limiting between-meal snacks

Seeing your dentist at least twice a year for a cleaning and oral exam

FAQs

Check out answers to our most commonly asked questions about what to expect at your teeth cleaning and dental checkup appointment.

How often should I visit the dentist for a checkup?

The standard for visiting the dentist for a professional teeth cleaning and dental checkup is at least twice a year, or once every 6 months. This can vary however, depending on your oral health and risk for gum disease. Our dentist and team of qualified hygienists will determine your appointment frequency following your first checkup.

How long will my visit take?

The time of your first visit may vary, but the minimum time is 60 minutes.

Do you offer hygiene only appointments?

What is scaling?

A regular cleaning ensures the surfaces of the teeth are cleaned as well as the space between the teeth and above the gum line. A regular cleaning also includes teeth polishing. A cleaning with scaling is needed in order to remove bacteria, plaque, and debris that has collected under the gum line.

Will I have to get x-rays?

We highly recommend dental x-rays as a part of your complete oral exam. Dental x-rays provide us insight into what's going on with your teeth, allowing us to provide the best possible treatment possible.

Is my visit covered by insurance?

If you have insurance, please ask us about coverage and we are happy to review your options with you.

Can I ask questions at my appointment?

Our friendly and welcoming team is happy to answer any questions you may have about your oral health and dental care.

Will I be asked about my health history?

It is important for your dental care provider to have a thorough understanding of your health history. Your information is always kept confidential.

Keeping your teeth healthy

Additional preventive methods include the application of dental sealants and exposure to fluoride in the form of fluoridated drinking water, toothpaste, mouthwash, or fluoride treatments directly applied by your dentist.

Our professional dental team will help you learn more about proper brushing and flossing, gum disease, tooth decay, dental sealants, and the relationship between smoking and oral health and gum disease.